China’s ships in the West Philippine Sea have significantly decreased because of the inclement weather but most of their vessels are deployed in Escoda shoal, according to a Philippine Navy report released Tuesday.
The latest Philippine Navy (PN) sighting report reveals that the total number of Chinese vessels dropped to 157, a decrease of 50 from the previous week. This reduction is primarily due to a decrease in the number of Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMVs), which fell from 182 to 123.
But the situation around Escoda Shoal (Sabina Shoal) remains notable, however, with 52 CMMVs, four PLAN ships, and nine CCGVs clustered there.
Although this is a slight decrease from the previous week’s count of 68 Chinese vessels, the area continues to see significant Chinese maritime activity, the report said.
“Yes, if we notice, the decrease is more in the northern part of Kalayaan Island Group, which is the area more affected by weather.” Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in the latest AFP Briefing.
“We still perform our mandate…In the first place, the presence of the CCG, the PLA Navy, and the maritime militia was in reaction to our increased attention given to Escoda Shoal,” he said.
Despite this decrease, there was an increase in the number of China Coast Guard Vessels (CCGVs) and People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships, with 26 CCGVs and three PLAN warships noted. The number of Chinese Research and Survey Vessels (CRSVs) remained unchanged at one.
Other notable sightings include Pagasa Island with 32 Chinese vessels (one CCGV and 31 CMMVs), Bajo de Masinloc with 17 vessels (six CCGVs, three PLAN, eight CMMVs, and one CRSV), Ayungin Shoal with 17 vessels (10 CCGVs and seven CMMVs), and various other locations with smaller clusters of Chinese vessels.
